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A vehicle mirror allows the driver to observe traffic and other road users behind or beside the vehicle.

An interior rear-view mirror normally provides a view through the rear window, while exterior side mirrors provide views along the sides and towards the rear of the vehicle.

Check your mirrors regularly and particularly before changing speed or direction, changing lane, overtaking, merging, turning or stopping.

Yes. Mirrors should be adjusted from the normal driving position before setting off so that they provide the intended view of traffic behind and beside the vehicle.

No. Even correctly adjusted mirrors can leave areas that are not visible to the driver. These are commonly called blind spots.

Yes. Where necessary, use a brief direct observation in addition to the mirrors before moving sideways so that a cyclist, motorcycle or other vehicle hidden from the mirrors is not overlooked.

Yes. A cracked, loose, missing or badly adjusted mirror can reduce the driver's view of surrounding traffic and should be repaired or replaced when necessary.

Some vehicles use approved camera-based indirect-vision systems instead of or in addition to conventional mirrors. Whether such a system is legally permitted depends on the vehicle's approval and local technical requirements.

Checking the mirrors can help detect cyclists, motorcyclists and other approaching road users before a door is opened into their path.

Yes, according to the applicable vehicle requirements. Motorcycles normally have one or more rear-view mirrors so that the rider can observe traffic behind without turning around for extended periods.